Explosive Manufacturers Key Terms

Understand the terms you need to navigate the chemical explosive industry

By Lesley Graybeal

The explosives industry includes the manufacture of commercial and consumer grade fireworks, as well as chemical explosive compounds for use in demolition, groundbreaking and mining operations. Because safety is paramount in working with pyrotechnics and detonation, anyone working with explosives manufacturers should become aware of the industry basics. While explosives are manufactured in a variety of forms and for many different purposes, a knowledge of a few specific key terms can help anyone understand the basic types and uses of explosives.

Chemical explosive

A chemical explosive is used describe any type of chemical compound used to create an exothermic reaction, that is, a reaction in which heat is produced, in a controlled discharge. Chemical explosive reagents are typically unstable compounds, making them sensitive to friction and pressure prior to use.
Try: Owen Guns provides a concise definition of chemical explosive in a glossary of explosive terms.

Blasting agent

A blasting agent is another type of detonation device used in the explosives industry that is composed of two or more elements that can be made to explode when heat or pressure is applied. Blasting agents are not legally classified as explosives, and generally will not explode unless a detonator is used.
Try: The Occupational Safety & Health Administration offers an official definition of blasting agent, as contrasted with an explosive.

ANFO

ANFO, or Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil, is the most common type of blasting agent used in the mining industry. ANFO is a compound of ammonium nitrate and most often diesel fuel, in which the detonation reaction produces nitrogen, carbon dioxide and water.
Try: GlobalSecurity.org provides a comprehensive definition and explanation of ANFO and how it works as an explosive.

Fireworks

Fireworks are a type of packaged explosive manufactured in two varieties, consumer and commercial grade. Fireworks are relatively small explosions used for entertainment in which detonations are timed and orchestrated to contain certain colors and sounds. Consumer fireworks are regulated by state, while a professional license is required to operate commercial fireworks.
Try: Read more about consumer and commercial fireworks from the Fireworks Alliance glossary.

Pyrotechnics

Pyrotechnics describes the entertainment industry in which commercial grade fireworks are primarily used, and includes any professional display of combustible compounds or explosives in an indoor or outdoor setting. Pyrotechnicians also may be involved in a range of other effects, such as controlled fires and simulated gunfire or smoke.
Try: The American Pyrotechnics Association provides one definition for pyrotechnics used in the industry.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, also known as the ATF, is the Department of Justice branch in charge of regulating explosives of all types. Licensing and regulations for explosive manufacturers are all generated by the ATF, as well as safety precautions and public service initiatives for the safe use of explosives by industries and consumers.
Try: Read more about the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives at the ATF website.